Newcastle United Secures Back-to-Back Champions League Wins with Dominant Performance Against Benfica
In an electrifying match at St James’ Park, Newcastle United achieved their second consecutive victory in the UEFA Champions League, triumphing over Jose Mourinho’s Benfica. This remarkable performance builds on their earlier win against Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, bringing the Magpies to six points from a possible nine in the competition following a tough loss to Barcelona in their opener.
Match Highlights:
The match saw Anthony Gordon open the scoring with a precise first-half finish, followed by a sensational brace from substitute Harvey Barnes in the second half. Newcastle’s dominant display overwhelmed Benfica and showcased their growing confidence in European football.
Player Ratings:
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Nick Pope – 8: The goalkeeper was instrumental, making crucial saves against Dodi Lukebakio and delivering a stunning throw that set up Barnes for the second goal. His performance earned him high praise from teammates.
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Kieran Trippier – 6: While not at his best, Trippier contributed with solid tackles and moments of quality.
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Malick Thiaw – 7: The summer signing had a strong game, managing well despite receiving a yellow card in the first half.
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Sven Botman – 7: Botman helped limit Benfica to only two shots on target, maintaining back-to-back clean sheets in the Champions League despite playing through a knock.
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Dan Burn – 6: Burn faced challenges from Lukebakio but improved as the match progressed, becoming a significant aerial threat in the closing moments.
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Bruno Guimaraes – 9: The standout player on the pitch, Guimaraes was pivotal in Newcastle’s attack, providing a brilliant assist for Gordon’s goal and consistently influencing play in the final third.
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Lewis Miley – 7: In his starting debut, Miley showed promise with nice touches and nearly scored in the second half.
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Jacob Ramsey – 6: Despite showing flashes of quality, Ramsey struggled to impact the game and was substituted around the hour mark.
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Jacob Murphy – 8: Murphy delivered an impressive performance, assisting the opener and nearly scoring himself with a dangerous cross.
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Nick Woltemade – 7: Woltemade showcased his exceptional close control and contributed effectively to the team’s play, assisting in the build-up to the third goal.
- Anthony Gordon – 9: Gordon was a constant threat, scoring the first goal and assisting Barnes’ second. His hard work and creativity earned him a well-deserved standing ovation when substituted.
Substitutes:
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Harvey Barnes (for Murphy, 63) – 8: Barnes made an immediate impact, scoring twice and sealing the victory.
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Joelinton (for Ramsey, 63) – 6: Joelinton had a close chance and nearly scored from long range.
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Anthony Elanga (for Gordon, 85) – N/A: Came on for the final minutes.
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Will Osula (for Woltemade, 85) – N/A: Provided a brief appearance as a center-forward.
- Joe Willock (for Guimaraes, 90) – N/A: Almost scored with his first touch in the game.
With this victory, Newcastle United has firmly established themselves as a competitive force in the Champions League, and fans are excited to see how the team progresses in their European campaign.
